The Order of Virgins is a special expression of Consecrated life that blossomed anew in the Church after the Vatican Council. Its roots are ancient dating back to the dawn of Apostolic times. The ideal, truly lofty in itself, demands no special external change, each one remaining in her own life context in the world. An essential “rule of life” defines the commitment each one assumes, with the Bishop’s consent. Our principal duty is to live totally for Christ in practising penance, works of mercy, apostolic works and prayer.

Members of Secular Institutes are men and women who are dedicated by vow or promise, while living normal secular lives.

Caritas Christi:

Caritas Christi is an international secular institute for women in which members make a commitment for life to be totally given to God. Out of love they choose to live a celibate life in order to dedicate their love in its completeness to God, the Church and all people. Their service is given in the circumstances of their everyday lives. They remain lay people. If you are single or widowed and would like more information, write to:

A Carmelite Secular Institute for single or widowed women who seek to dedicate themselves to God in their present circumstances in the world through the vows of poverty, celibacy and obedience according to Gospel values which are expressed in the constitutions of the Institute. There is a period of formation in accordance with Canon Law and all members meet for retreats and renewal weekends centred on Carmelite spirituality.

Further information from: Jo Alexander on 01538 381828

Email: josalex @ supanetcom

Servitium Christi:

Secular Institute of the Blessed Sacrament. Following the Spirituality of St. Peter Julian Eymard, members take vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience. Members, lay women, single/widows live their normal daily lives with Eucharistic prayer and service at work, home and in the community.

Information from Fran Cassidy, 22 Fern Rd, Ellesmere Port CH65 6PB.

Tel: 0151-357 1600.

The Grail:

The Grail Secular Institute offers a particular way of life to single or widowed Catholic women. Those who belong make a formal commitment to live out their baptismal promises through the channel of the Grail and its mission.

There are two ways of belonging, as members of the Grail Community or as individual members, (Companions). All members seek to find God in their everyday life situations.

Community members live together, expressing a simple uncluttered and celibate life¬style. They aim to be open, to heal and to release the gifts of those they meet. They are accountable to those with whom they live and see all that they undertake as enabling people to grow towards their full potential.

Companions of the Grail live independently and follow their chosen occupation. This makes specific demands on each person but also provides challenge, support and guidance. They meet regularly in area groups and aim to be alert to developments and needs in both Church and society so as to bring an informed response to daily situations. Companions and the Grail Community spend time together each year to share more deeply the ethos and mission of the Grail.

Saint Francis of Assisi left us ‘a Dream to dream and a Journey to challenge everyone’. All Franciscans are inspired by him to follow Christ. The Secular Franciscan Order belongs to this family. In their secular state, members permanently commit themselves to live the Gospel as Francis did, following his Rule approved by the Pope. The SFO is open to the laity and diocesan clergy. There are more than 1,300 secular Franciscans in Great Britain. Gathering in fraternities, they strive to grow in the love of God and in peace with each other. In this way, they aspire to be faithful disciples of Christ.

The Carmelite family of Friars, Nuns and Secular members have a special charism to witness the importance of contemplative prayer. This way of life is lived by all. For the Secular members (both married and single) who live their life in the world, this entails a commitment to follow Christ according to one’s state of life and a special ‘Rule of Life’ based on Carmelite tradition. The Carmelite way of life is an invitation to a deep friendship with Christ inspired by St Teresa of Avila and St John of the Cross. The monthly meetings are an opportunity for silent prayer, formation and building friendships which help strengthen our commitment.

1. Wirral:

Our Lady Help of Christians. Mrs Valerie Reid OCDS, President

152 Sutherland Drive, Eastham, Wirral. Tel: 0151 327 3996

Email: valeriereid45@yahoo.co.uk

2. Rock Ferry:

Flower of Carmel. Mrs Gerda McArdle OCDS, President

Flat 17, Norlands Ct, 142 Bebington Rd., Rock Ferry, Wirral CH42 4QD

Tel: 0151 645 5296

Email: gerda@the-mcardles.com

PERSONAL PRELATURES

Personal Prelatures are juridical structures of a secular character governed by a Prelate and erected by the Holy See to carry out specific pastoral or missionary activities. Each has its own statutes approved by the Holy See.

Opus Dei Prelature

Opus Dei is a personal Prelature, international in its scope which has as its aim the spreading throughout all sectors of society a deep awareness of the universal call to sanctity and apostolate, in the fulfilment of everyday work. It is formed by a Prelate with his own clergy and by lay people, men and women, who in virtue of a divine vocation freely join the Prelature. Further up to date information can be found on our website at www.opusdei.org.